Guys...

As a teacher I can tell you that very often students will ask questions that they actually know (or know where to get) the answers to. The motivation behind asking the question may be more complex than just getting an answer. Often, it may just be a need for reassurance or to connect with others in the room in a discussion on a particular point. Regardless, unless the student is obviously attempting to disrupt the class or deviate too far from the lesson, it is a poor educator who doesn't acknowledge the student's inquiry or concern.

In a perfect world, all students would aquaint themselves with the course materials before a lesson, all students would listen attentively and all students would learn in exactly the same way (preferably the teacher's way!) Of course this is not reality and in every learning situation people have thier own ways of absorbing or "getting" data. Reading a passage in a book may not register or have as much impact to an inductive learner than asking a person who has practiced and experienced a certian method or concept. For others, the written word is definative and discussion is redundant.
I think we can lend support here to all kinds of learners just trying to work through all the information on this WOE/ nutritional paradigm shift.

Cheers,